We’ve all been there: staring at a computer screen, frantically searching for answers to questions like, “Is it normal for my period to be a little off?” or “What about feeling itchy down there?” Before launching into a potentially anxiety-inducing Google search, it’s crucial to understand that many common concerns are likely nothing to worry about.
This article explores seven frequently reported vaginal and vulvar symptoms that are often harmless. It also provides guidance on when to seek professional medical advice from a gynecologist.
Meet the Experts:
- Gillian Mackay, MBBS, FACOG, OB-GYN at University of California San Diego Health
- Ashley Birmingham, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center
- Laura Jacques, MD, OB-GYN at University of Wisconsin Health and Associate Professor of OB-GYN at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
- Linda Eckert, MD, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Adjunct Professor of Global Health at the University of Washington School of Medicine and book author.
- Kelly Culwell, MD, MPH, Board-Certified OB-GYN
1. Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is a normal and necessary function of the vagina. “It’s essentially a fluid that helps maintain the natural ecosystem and the function of the vagina,” explains Dr. Laura Jacques. While some discharge is expected, concerns often arise. Many women worry about the amount of discharge, but often, it’s completely normal. Expect up to a tablespoon of discharge daily, with variations depending on your menstrual cycle. Hormonal birth control can also contribute to more consistent discharge levels.
Healthy vaginal discharge is typically clear, white, or slightly yellow and doesn’t have a strong odor. Red flags include itching, burning, an unusual odor, or a green or new yellow color, which could indicate a vaginal infection warranting a gynecologist’s evaluation.
2. Fluctuations in Your Menstrual Cycle
Minor fluctuations in your menstrual cycle are entirely normal. “[Patients] often feel that if their period is not the same number of days of bleeding, and the same interval between periods every month, then that’s somehow abnormal,” notes Dr. Gillian Mackay. Factors like stress, sleep changes, weight fluctuations, exercise level changes, illness, or chronic conditions can all affect your period.
Things become more concerning if your cycle is shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, or if your period lasts longer than seven days or involves extremely heavy bleeding (requiring frequent tampon/pad changes). These irregularities may indicate a need for further evaluation by a gynecologist.
3. Spotting Between Periods
Spotting between periods is a common source of concern, especially for those using hormonal birth control. It’s not unusual to experience slight spotting before or after your period, or around the time of ovulation. However, persistent spotting for more than a few days a month for longer than two cycles, particularly without hormonal contraception, should be evaluated by a doctor. Possible causes range from STIs and pelvic inflammatory disease to uterine fibroids and, in rare cases, cervical or uterine cancer.
4. Irregular Bleeding While On Birth Control
Hormonal birth control (pill, implant, shot, or hormonal IUD) can cause spotting, irregular periods, or no periods altogether. This is due to the progestin’s suppression of natural hormone fluctuations, thinning the uterine lining. While spotting is common, particularly in the initial months of use, it’s recommended to consult a gynecologist if spotting persists beyond three to six months or significantly disrupts daily life.
5. A Mild Vaginal Odor
A certain amount of vaginal odor is normal. A light scent after sex, exercise, or during the second half of your menstrual cycle is not usually a cause for concern. However, if the odor changes, becomes very strong, fishy, or foul-smelling, accompanied by itching, burning, or pain, it could be an infection requiring medical attention.
6. Itching and Irritation
The vulva is resilient but can experience occasional itching and irritation. Common causes include prolonged wear of sweaty clothing, new soaps, detergents, or panty liners. Avoiding scratching and using gentle, fragrance-free products can help. If itching persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by pain, swelling, blisters, sores, or abnormal discharge, seek medical advice. Especially if there is a history of unprotected sex.
7. The Occasional Lump or Bump
Skin changes on the vulva, like ingrown hairs, pimples, or skin tags, are common and typically harmless. However, if you notice a painful blister or ulcer, a bump accompanied by swelling, itching, redness, or pus, or a newly-formed, firm bump that’s not going away, it’s important to be evaluated by a doctor. Possible causes range from STIs to infected cysts or, in rare cases, pre-cancerous or cancerous growths.
When to See a Gynecologist
If your symptoms are isolated, mild, short-lived, and not accompanied by other concerning symptoms, there’s likely no need to worry. However, when in doubt, consult your OB-GYN. “The female reproductive system is complex,” emphasizes Dr. Birmingham. “Our bodies change frequently…often just called normal physiologic changes.” Seeking professional evaluation provides peace of mind and ensures prompt attention to any potential underlying issues.
